Western Force to unleash new recruits in opening Toyota Challenge game against Cheetahs

Mon, Sep 30, 2024, 10:58 AM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson
The Western Force's 2025 Super Rugby Pacific fixtures have been revealed with the Club hosting seven games, including six Saturday afternoon kick-offs and a Sunday 2pm start.

The Western Force are set to unveil a host of their new signings as they begin their South African tour against the Cheetahs on October 3.

Back-rower Reed Prinsep will lead the side whilst former Wallaby Sam Carter serves as vice as part of a forward pack mixed with fresh faces and experienced starters.

Watch the Western Force take on the Cheetahs from 1pm AWST October 3 live, ad-free and on demand on Stan Sport

New signings Nic Dolly, Josh Thompson and Nick Champion de Crespigny all start whilst young prop Marley Pearce and Will Harris seek to continue their strong 2024 seasons.

Harris is coming off a hat-trick in last week's hitout against Perth Gold.

Three-cap Wallaby Issak Fines-Leleiwasa adds quality to the backline as he partners with Max Burey, who helped Northern Suburbs to the Shute Shield Final.

Former Reds winger Mac Grealy continues his development with the club, named on the wing alongside local product Justin Landman.

He is joined by ex-Highlanders centre Sio Tomkinson and Harry Potter, with Isaac Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens named at the back.

Experienced Wallabies lock Darcy Swain headlines the bench after his move from the ACT Brumbies.

Swain will link up with Australia A prop Harry Hoopert and Wallaby squad member Tom Horton.

Newcomers Sila Titiuti, Coby Miln and Divad Palu have also been included in the reserves alongside emerging half Henry Robertson and backrower Titi Nofoagatotoa.

Thursday’s game is part of the Toyota Challenge hosted by the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein, with Emerging Ireland and the Griffons also competing.

The Force will face the Emerging Irish side on Sunday, with $AU25,000 per match up for grabs.

FORCE (1-15): Marley Pearce, Nic Dolly, Tiaan Tauakipulu, Josh Thompson, Sam Carter, Will Harris, Nick Champion de Crespigny, Reed Prinsep (c), Issak Fines-Leleiwasa, Max Burey, Mac Grealy, Sio Tomkinson, Harry Potter, Justin Landman, Isaac Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens

Reserves; Tom Horton, Harry Hoopert, Sila Titiuti, Darcy Swain, Titi Nofoagatotoa, Henry Robertson, Coby Miln, Divad Palu

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